Landmark Legislation for Marine Farming
Marine Consents Extension Bill Hailed as a Game-Changer by Aquaculture Industry
The aquaculture industry is applauding the passage of the Resource Management (Extended Duration of Coastal Permits for Marine Farms) Amendment Bill, which successfully passed its third reading in Parliament on Tuesday. This landmark piece of legislation will provide the long-awaited certainty and economic stability that marine farmers have been advocating for over several decades.
Under the new law, all existing coastal permits for New Zealand’s 1200 marine farms will be extended by up to 20 years. This transformative legislation has been welcomed with open arms by industry.
Jonathan Large, President of the Marine Farming Association, expressed his appreciation for the Government’s commitment to the sector.
"Having worked in the mussel industry for over 30 years, this level of support from the Government is unprecedented. I commend NZ First and Minister Shane Jones for recognising our potential and taking decisive action."
He added, "Previous Governments have promised much but delivered little, leaving us bogged down by red tape and unnecessary costs.”
Without the law change, an estimated $6 million would have been spent this year alone on reconsenting by 200 marine farms. That money will now be redirected into valuable investments, such as adopting new practices and technology to boost productivity and sustainability in a sector poised to drive export growth in the coming years.
John Young, Managing Director and CEO of Clearwater Mussels Limited, emphasised the importance of the new legislation, highlighting the significant impact it will have on the industry’s future.
“To date, Clearwater has spent $3 million just to renew existing water space, with a third of that amount lost in the process. This has been a complete waste of resources, both financially and mentally. This Bill is crucial—it brings the fundamental change we need to move away from the despair caused by the current stifling regulatory process. It will allow us to focus on growing our industry rather than fighting for survival.”
“As a company, we are working tirelessly to help achieve the Government's national aquaculture goal of $3 billion by 2035. We believe this target is within reach, but only if we’re not held back by over-regulation. This Bill will clear the path for us to innovate and expand without being shellshocked by bureaucracy.”
Tony Hazlett, CEO of Talley’s Limited, hails the bill as a game-changer for the aquaculture sector, praising it for the robust security and stability it promises to deliver.
“Talley’s, a leading processor of mussels, is thrilled with the decision to secure the future for the aquaculture sector. This move not only ensures our continued investment in infrastructure but also supports job creation and boosts much-needed export revenue. We’ve always been aware that renewal processes can disrupt the industry. Now, with this certainty, we can focus our energy and resources on value addition and innovation to propel the industry forward.”
“I congratulate Minister Jones and the Government for their foresight and actions to secure a future for our industry.”
For communities dependent on aquaculture, the Bill promises enhanced job security and economic stability.
Johnny Arbuckle, a skipper for Clearwater Mussels is relieved to finally have job security for his family.
“As a younger person in the industry, I now feel a lot more confident that my job won’t just go tits up. I have a wife and three kids at home, and the ongoing consent issues have always worried me about potentially losing my job."
“I remember when Clearwater lost their farm in Port Gore and how swiftly it all happened. This Bill has my family and I over the moon."
Helen Cave of EEC Ltd and Southern Seafoods Ltd on Stewart Island welcomed the Bill, noting its importance for local prosperity.
"We wholeheartedly welcome the extension of marine farm permits, as it brings much-needed certainty for the coming years. Aquaculture is a vital part of the Stewart Island economy, fostering stability that encourages more families to settle here, supporting our schools and essential services.”
The Bill also aims to bolster the countries already strong international reputation for producing sustainable seafood.
Simon Pooley, Director of Waimana Marine, praised the Bill for ensuring long-term tenure and boosting sustainability.
"Mussel farming is a model of sustainability and efficiency, and we are profoundly grateful and thankful for the recognition as the lights go on around our nation as our people and leaders acknowledge that we have something to be truly proud of.”
Gary Hooper, CE for Aquaculture New Zealand, echoed the industry's widespread enthusiasm for the promise the Bill holds.
“Aquaculture in New Zealand is a compelling proposition. We produce delicious nutritious seafood loved at home and revered by chefs around the world. Our sustainable practices are recognised internationally. We are at the heart of many regional communities and Iwi Māori ambitions.”
“The Bill to extend the term of marine farm consents will allow the industry to put more resources into productive pursuits creating more jobs, more export earnings and accelerate the sector towards its inherent potential.”
“Having worked in the mussel industry for over 30 years, this level of support from the Government is unprecedented. I commend NZ First and Minister Shane Jones for recognising our potential and taking decisive action.”
Johnny Arbuckle, skipper for Clearwater Mussels, is relieved to finally have job security for his family.